CHESTER - It's part of the marriage process. Just a temporary phase on the way like a 'trial marriage'. 75% of cohabiting couples expect to marry. However BEJIN found - It can be permanent as young couples find it more equal.

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How have same-sex relationships changed?

Increased social acceptance. Changes in social policies e.g. equalised age of consent and rights to adopt.

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What do sociologists think of same-sex relationships? CRITICISE

WEEKS - Based on friendship and kinship, these are 'chosen families' and just as stable.

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How have one-person households changed?

Increased to 3 in 10 households - half of these are pensioner age.

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Why have the numbers of one-person households increased? CRITICISE

Increase in divorce. Decline in numbers marrying or marrying later. Not enough partners in age group (pensioners)

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Explain DUNCAN AND PHILLIPS 'living apart together'.

In a significant relationship but not married or cohabiting. May be because they cannot afford it or want to keep their own home.

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How has childbearing changed?

Women are having children later. Women are having less children or even remaining childless. This is because women want to pursue a career first.

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Describe the statistics and reasons for in childbearing.

1 in 4 born outside of marriage. Decline in stigma and increase in cohabitation.

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What are the facts of lone-parent families?

24% of all families. 1 in 4 children are in a lone-parent family. 90% headed by lone mother. Twice as likely to live in poverty.

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Give reasons for these changes in lone-parent families.

Increase in separation and divorce with mother almost always gaining custody.

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Describe the relationship between lone-parent families and the welfare state?

BALLARD: Extended family was an important source of support during migration.

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Describe he extended family today.

Continues to play an important role in emotional and financial support even though they don't live together.

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What do sociologists say about the extended family? CRITICISE

WILLMOTT: Continues to exist as a 'dispersed extended family' - Family is geographically separated but still maintain contact through frequent visits and phone calls. CHARLES: Extended family 'all but extinct'.